Top Five Things to Do in Orange County CA

Heading to California is exciting in itself, but heading to the Orange County in California is even more exciting. Known for its sunshine, lakes, malls and affluent residents (you’re sure to see a celebrity!), there are numerous enjoyable activities to take part in. The question is: where to begin and what to do? This article will provide information on the top five things to do while visiting the Orange County, California.

1. Enjoy Hiking In The Crystal Cove State Park

For all walking and hiking enthusiasts, this is the perfect activity for you. Located in Laguna Beach, just off the Pacific Coast Highway, the Crystal Cove State Park is one of the largest and most diverse parks on the Western Coast. Boasting both dusty mountain hiking trails, wooded scenic routes, and coastal beaches, this state park is perfect for all types of outdoorsy individuals. In fact, for a slight fee, it is possible to camp for at most one week in the park.

2. Go Fishing At The Bear Flag Fish Company

If you or your friends enjoy fishing, then the OC fishing experience is definitely for you. Just off the Crystal Cove Promenade lies the Bear Flag Fish Co. where you are able to fish for fresh water fish Monday to Saturday, 11am to 9pm. Featuring wild salmon, grouper, snapper and swordfish, it is possible to catch various types of fish during a single visit. Furthermore, you can even enjoy the tasty fresh food at the Bear Flag Fish Co.’s bistros should you fancy a snack.

3. Enjoy A Ferry Ride To Balboa Island

Orange County is one of the most popular areas in pop culture with their beaches, malls and lakes being featured in numerous films and television shows. For fans of ‘Arrested Development’ it is possible to enjoy the scenery and be a part of the show by heading off to Balboa Island in Newport Beach, OC. Become an honorary Bluth – the family from ‘Arrested Development’ – by wandering through the restaurants and stores found on the Balboa strip. Furthermore, if you’re looking for some activities, try whale watching or parasailing to get some exciting selfies on the island.

4. Do Some Shopping At The South Coast Plaza

For individuals who are not interested in outdoor activities and would rather spend time perusing high-end fashion boutiques, do not fear for the OC has the ideal mall for your needs! As seen in the cult comedy ‘Clueless’ and reality show ‘Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County’, the South Coast Plaza can be found in Costa Mesa, OC. The largest mall on the Western Coast, this plaza presents with 250 departments stores including the high-end boutique Armani Exchange. It also features various restaurants, such as Asian gourmet restaurant with indoor performance venues, AnQi by House of An.

5. Find Your Inner Hippie At The Sawdust Art Festival

Introduced to Laguna Beach in the mid-1960s by Laguna hippies, the Sawdust Art Festival is one of the premier local art festivals in the Orange County. If you find yourself in the OC during the summer months, be sure to head down to this unique event where vendors will promote their local creations, sculptures, jewelry, and much more. The most exciting and unique feature of this festival, and how it received its name, is that the entire festival ground is covered with sawdust.